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Beef Log
This savory Beef Log appetizer combines classic mid-century party fare with creamy and tangy ingredients. Featuring cream cheese, Parmesan, olives, horseradish, and dried beef, it’s a nostalgic spread or roll often served with crackers or cocktail rye. Ideal for holidays, game nights, or retro gatherings, the log can be shaped and chilled in advance for fuss-free serving. It’s bold, salty, and creamy, a crowd-pleaser that delivers flavor in every slice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 65 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz Philadelphia cream cheese (softened)
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese (grated )
  • ¼ cup olives (chopped )
  • 2 tsp horseradish (optional, to taste)
  • 3 oz Dried Beef (slivered)

Instructions
 

Step 1: Mix Base

  • In a medium bowl, combine softened cream cheese, Parmesan, chopped olives, and horseradish (if using).
  • Mash and stir together with a fork until fully blended.

Step 2: Prepare Beef

  • Slice the dried beef into thin strips or slivers.
  • Add to the cream cheese mixture and mix until evenly distributed.
  • Note: The recipe creator advises not using the entire 3 oz if it seems like too much.

Step 3: Shape and Chill

  • Shape mixture into two smaller logs or one large ball/log.
  • Wrap tightly in waxed paper and chill for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips

  • Substitute chopped green onions for olives for a milder flavor.
  • Roll the finished log in chopped parsley or crushed nuts for texture.
  • Use reduced-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
  • Great served with butter crackers, pita chips, or cocktail rye slices.

Nutrition

Calories: 65kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 3gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.3gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 18mgSodium: 185mgPotassium: 37mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 211IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 49mgIron: 0.2mg
Keyword Cream Cheese, party food, savory
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